Description:

OFFICE OF THE MANISTEE/BENZIE INDIGENT DEFENSE CONFLICT ADMINISTRATOR

Notice of Opportunity: Conflict Panel Attorneys for Indigent Defense, Felony and Misdemeanor Cases

Date: September 17, 2025

The Manistee/Benzie County Indigent Defense Program is accepting applications from attorneys interested in providing legal representation to indigent defendants in Manistee and Benzie Counties. These appointments pertain specifically to conflict cases (i.e., where the Manistee-Benzie Regional Public Defender's Office is unable to provide representation due to a conflict of interest).

Attorneys may elect to work in either county or both, on felony cases, misdemeanor cases, or both. If an attorney is only interested in working in one county or the other, or with only felonies or misdemeanors, they shall indicate their preferred county and types of cases in their application.

Service Period
October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025

Types of Cases Covered

Conflict felony appointments and felony probation violation proceedings in the 19th Circuit Court (Manistee) and 85th District Court (Manistee/Benzie).
Representation includes all in-county felony matters where the Public Defender's Office is recused and the Conflict Panel is assigned.

Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must:

Be a member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan.
Reside in Manistee or Benzie County, or maintain a physical office there for at least 12 months prior to application. (This requirement may be waived if insufficient attorneys meet the criteria.)
Carry and annually provide proof of malpractice insurance.
Complete at least 12 hours of relevant Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits every year. Attorneys with less than two years of criminal defense practice in Michigan must complete a MIDC-approved “Basic Skills Acquisition” course.
Submit quarterly verification of CLE compliance; all credits must also be reported in CE Broker.
Be able to meet with an appointed client within three business days of assignment and provide quarterly compliance confirmation.